September 20, 2006
If you've been reading our Executive Briefings, or any of the major trade publications for any length of time, you know that on the transportation front, our nation is facing critical challenges. Whether it is addressing transportation infrastructure issues, or securing the flow of products through our corporate supply chains, people are gradually starting to realize that they can no longer assume, or take for granted that their goods and products will always be able to move as freely and timely as they have in the past.
This is why we are honored and delighted that Secretary Norman Mineta, our country's most recent Secretary of Transportation, just went On the Record with TranzAct Technologies. In our opinion, Secretary Mineta has a more in-depth understanding of the complex, intertwined nature of the transportation challenges we face as a country than anyone else we have met. He had a front row seat in developing legislation and policies responsible for many of the improved efficiencies in the supply chain that we have experienced over the past 15 years.
Prior to serving as the Secretary of Transportation (the longest sitting Secretary of Transportation in our Nation's history), Secretary Mineta served in the United States House of Representatives (from 1975 – 1994) representing the Silicon Valley area. While serving in the House, he was instrumental in passing the first highway funding bill (ISTEA) in 1991. As Secretary, he oversaw the passage of the most recent highway funding bill (SAFETEA-LU) in 2005.
Over the years, I've given numerous speeches about the need for shippers to get involved in contacting their elected representatives to voice concerns about laws and policies affecting transportation. One of the reasons for my passion is because of Secretary Mineta. I'll never forget meeting with Secretary Mineta when he served as Chairman of the House Public Works and Transportation Committee. He proved to be a Representative genuinely interested in solving problems. When legislation was passed to deregulate intrastate trucking and, in a separate bill, eliminate the Interstate Commerce Commission, I recognized his ability to forge a consensus on difficult issues. He has inspired me and many others by proving that common citizens can make a difference if they are willing to get involved. I hope you enjoy this On the Record interview with Secretary Mineta.
Mike Regan
TranzAct Technologies
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